Systems and methods are provided for identification and tracking of large semi-closed eddies (e.g., oceanic eddies). For example, embodiments of the present disclosure provide systems and methods for detecting a cyclonic or anticyclonic eddy in the ocean and determining its size, shape, and intensity given a single input field. In an embodiment, this input is a two-dimensional (2D) gridded field of Sea Surface Height Anomaly (SSHA) or Absolute Dynamic Topography (ADT), both of which can be determined from satellite based observations. Embodiments of the present disclosure are more accurate and computationally efficient than traditional methods and further provide high adaptability that will enable additional improvements as advances are made in satellite-based observations.